March finally swings into view and so far the opportunities to get out and ride have been few and far between. In a week of heavy showers and strong winds; today a respite. Clear skies, little wind and not much to take to and from work meant the bike was the only choice in reality. Taking the long way there and the long way back I was able to get a preview of what my probably summer commutes will look like.The route to work included some of the roads I used to take when at a previous job. They're bumpy in places but the road is swift and the sight lines are generally good and I've always found it to be an engaging ride.The way back is longer and includes about a mile of dull dual carriageway, however this gives way to fast sweeping undulating corners on a route that gives the opportunity for many alterations depending on my mood.The numbers of bikes I've been spotting has been on the rise. Some you can clearly tell have been riding all winter, the hi-viz where present, is more brown than yellow, their bikes, far from factory fresh. Others look like they've just awoken from hibernation. Both bike and kit are pristine. Personally I'm glad I fall more into the first category than the second, but when it comes down to it, biking is all about what you get from it. If you don't mind riding when the conditions are far from perfect, then so be it. If you would prefer to keep your bike looking its best then I'm all for that as well. If we all likes the same things, life you be very dull indeed.

Leave a Reply.

Me

My name is Matt Brown and I'm a UK journalist formerly based in London, but now calling the South of England home. I've been riding bikes since 2007, but got hooked straight away. Nothing gives me the feeling of freedom, even when stuck in a city. In 2010 I became a RoSPA gold rider, but when it comes down to it, I'm Just a normal man, riding his bikes as often as he can.